Ikan Patin: A Delicious Indonesian Stew
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Ikan Patin, a traditional Indonesian dish that perfectly combines tender fish with a medley of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. This recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
To prepare this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 5 pieces of Patin fish
- 1 lime (for juice)
- 1 medium-sized tomato
- 3 green curly chilies (adjust to taste)
- 2 bird’s eye chilies (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 stalk of lemongrass (crushed)
- ½ inch galangal (crushed)
- Spice paste:
- 8 shallots
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 5 candlenuts
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 large red chili
- Salt (to taste)
Note: If you love spice, feel free to add more chilies according to your preference! 😊
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Start by cleaning the Patin fish thoroughly under running water. Once cleaned, rub the fish with salt and the juice of the lime, allowing it to marinate for about 15 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to eliminate any fishy odor.
Step 2: Chop the Ingredients
While the fish is marinating, prepare the other ingredients. Slice the tomato, green curly chilies, and the red bird’s eye chilies. Additionally, crush the galangal to release its fragrant oils, and set these ingredients aside for later use.
Step 3: Make the Spice Paste
In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric powder, and large red chili. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. This aromatic spice paste will form the base of your dish.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or wok, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste, along with the crushed lemongrass, galangal, and sliced tomato. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant and the tomatoes soften, creating a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 5: Cook the Fish
Once the aromatics are nicely sautéed, gently add the marinated Patin fish to the skillet. Stir the fish gently to coat it with the spice mixture. Pour in 250 ml of water, ensuring the fish is partially submerged. Stir everything together to combine the flavors, then allow it to simmer.
Step 6: Final Touches
Let the dish cook until the water reduces and the spices are infused into the fish. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt according to your preference. Once the fish is cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully, remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the delicious Ikan Patin to a serving plate and present it warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia.
Conclusion
Ikan Patin is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions that brings people together. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy your culinary adventure with Ikan Patin, and let each bite transport you to the vibrant heart of Indonesian cuisine!
